With sources indicating that a formal reveal is only a mere two weeks away, leaks regarding the next PSP are already beginning to trickle out. According to a follow-up report from UK trade site MCV, Sony has told licensees that the unit packs PS3-equivalent power. This jives with reports from various devs, including Mortal Kombat’s Shaun Himmerick, who lauded the PSP2’s impressive specs.

Now, that doesn’t mean it will necessarily match the PS3 spec-wise, but it does suggest the on-screen visuals of this tiny graphical powerhouse will be virtually indistinguishable from a PS3. Which, for a handheld, is quite incredible.

“High-level” sources also tell MCV that a Q4 launch is on the cards, though it’s not known if that release window applies worldwide to only to Japan. The launch of the first PSP was not a simultaneously affair, with it hitting Japan initially followed by North Americas and Europe. Expect more concrete details at the upcoming event in Tokyo. We’ll also presumably see the device at GDC and E3 later this year.

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